PI has introduced two new series of direct-drive linear actuator slides. The V-855 and V-857 product families were designed for high-load and high duty cycle industrial precision motion applications where traditional actuators with lead-screw or timing-belt drives are not precise, robust or reliable enough.

Due to the maintenance-free and friction free high-speed linear motors, greater productivity with shorter cycle times and faster return on investment can be achieved. The new motorized actuators are beneficial for all high-performance applications, where smooth scanning motion, minimum tracking errors, and short Source: PIsettling times are required.

The new closed-loop linear slide actuator product families provide high load capacity to 220 lbs (1000 N) and large travel ranges up to 47 in (1200 mm) with highly repeatable minimum incremental motion of 100 nm. Position feedback is via integrated linear encoders, available down to 1 nm resolution.

Acceleration is as rapid as 5Gs and top speeds of 196 in/sec (5 m/sec) can be reached. Because of the play-free and backlash-free direct-drive mechanics, settling times are extremely short, and bidirectional repeatability is excellent.

For X-Y applications, the V-855 and V-857 actuators can be stacked orthogonally. For XYZ applications, PI offers the V-817 stage family.